Information about hate crime
Information about hate crime
What is hate crime?
Hate crime is a crime that happens to you because of something like:
- your disability
- your religion or the things you believe in
- where your family come from
your sexuality.
This is whether you fancy mean, or women or both.
Hate crime is when someone does things like:
- call you nasty names and say horrible things to you
damage your house or your things
For example, they may break a window or steal your things.
- hit, punch or kick you
- send you nasty text messages or letters or make nasty phone calls to you.
How can I stop hate crime happening to me?
Hate crime is against the law.
You must tell someone if hate crime is happening to you.
You can tell:
- the police
a group called Stop Hate UK
You can phone them on 0800 138 1625.
- an advocate An advocate is a person who can help you have your say. An advocate can speak up for you if you find it hard.
An advocate is someone who will help you to speak up.
- a family member
- a friend
- your social worker A social worker is someone who can help you get the support you need. Social workers usually work for your local council A council is also called a local authority A local authority is also called a council. They are a group of people who make decisions about some of the things in the area where you live like schools, social care Social care means the services that give care and support to people who need it. (support for people), parks and dustbin collection. . They are a group of people who make decisions about some of the things in the area where you live. These include: schools, social care (support for people), parks and dustbin collection. . , key worker or carer
- a tutor at college or a teacher at school.
Tips on what to do when hate crime is happening to you
Try to stay calm.
Try to walk away if you can.
Try not to hit, swear, shout or fight the person. You might get into trouble or get hurt.
Every time something happens write down:
- who did it
- where it happened
- what day it happened
- what time it happened
- what they did.
Keep any nasty letters, emails or text messages.
Tell someone so you can get help to stop it.
What if I am still upset and scared when the hate crime has stopped
You can speak to your doctor and tell them how you feel. They might be able to find you a counsellor.
A counsellor is someone you can talk to about the way you feel.
Who can I speak to about hate crime?
You can speak to the Mencap Learning Disability Helpline:
Phone: 0808 808 1111
Email using our online form